Connector with integral fuse holder

ABSTRACT

A connector with an integral fuse holder is described herein. The connector can include a portion having a fuse receiver disposed within a cavity and coupled to an electrical connection feature. The connector can include an end coupled to the portion, where the end includes a wall that forms a cavity. The connector can further include a fuse assembly having a contact member, a fuse, a fuse holder, and a conductor receiver. The contact member can couple to the electrical connection feature. The fuse holder can include a first end that couples to a top end of the fuse and the contact member, and a second end that couples to a bottom end of the fuse. The conductor receiver can couple to the second end of the fuse holder and to the bottom end of the fuse. A receiving feature of the conductor receiver can couple to a conductor.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation application of and claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/657,488, titled “Connector With Integral Fuse Holder,” filed Oct. 22,2012, which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to an electrical connector andmore particularly to systems, methods, and devices for an electricalconnector with an integral fuse holder.

BACKGROUND

Electrical connectors are used in a number of different electricalapplications. For example, electrical connectors are used inphotovoltaic (PV) solar applications to electrically couple a PV solarpanel to a solar collector. In such a case, an electrical connector canbe used for one or more of a variety of purposes, including but are notlimited to protective schemes, signal control, signal delivery, powersupply, and power regulation.

In a PV solar application, signals (e.g., current, voltage) from anumber of solar panels are fed individually into a single collector.Often, the collector includes a junction box or similar components. Thecollector integrates all of the individual signals from each of thesolar panels into a single signal. Further, one or more protectionschemes (e.g., ground fault, overcurrent) can be integrated into such acircuit. Because of the number of connections required for such acircuit, installation can require a number of additional components(e.g., conduit, junction boxes) and/or steps (e.g., crimping conductorsto conductor terminals) that add to the cost of installation, the timeto install, the difficulty of installing, and the difficulty inmaintaining and troubleshooting.

SUMMARY

In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to an integralconnector end. The integral connector end can include a top portionhaving a connector coupling portion and an electrical connectionfeature, where the electrical connection feature has an electricallyconductive material. The integral connector end can also include amiddle portion having a first wall that surrounds a first cavity and afuse receiver disposed within the first cavity, where the fuse receiveris electrically coupled to the electrical connection feature. Theintegral connector end can further include a bottom portion moveablycoupled to the middle portion, where the bottom portion includes asecond wall that forms a second cavity through which a fuse and aconductor traverse. The connector coupling portion, the first wall, andthe second wall can be made of electrically non-conductive material.

In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a photovoltaic(PV) solar panel connector assembly. The PV solar panel connectorassembly can include a first connector portion, a second connectorportion, a fuse assembly, and a conductor. The first connector portionof the PV solar panel connector assembly can include a first connectorcoupling portion and a first electrical connection feature. The secondconnector portion of the PV solar panel connector assembly can bemechanically coupled to the first connector portion. The secondconnector portion can include a top portion having a second connectorcoupling portion and a second electrical connection feature, where thesecond electrical connection feature includes an electrically conductivematerial. The second connector portion can also include a middle portionhaving a first wall that surrounds a first cavity and a fuse receiverdisposed within the first cavity, where the fuse receiver iselectrically coupled to the electrical connection feature. The secondconnector portion can further include a bottom portion moveably coupledto the middle portion, where the bottom portion includes a second wallthat forms a second cavity, and where the connector coupling portion,the first wall, and the second wall are made of electricallynon-conductive material. The fuse assembly can be electrically coupledto the fuse receiver after being inserted through the second cavity. Thefuse assembly can include a fuse having a top end and a bottom end,where the top end and the bottom end each include an electricallyconductive material. The fuse assembly can also include a fuse holderhaving a first end comprising electrically conductive material, wherethe first end is electrically coupled to the top end of the fuse. Thefuse assembly can further include a conductor receiver electricallycoupled to the first end of the fuse holder and to the bottom end of thefuse, where the conductor receiver includes a receiving feature. Theconductor can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the conductorreceiver.

These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will beapparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments and are therefore notto be considered limiting in scope, as the exemplary embodiments mayadmit to other equally effective embodiments. The elements and featuresshown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis insteadbeing placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the exemplaryembodiments. Additionally, certain dimensions or positionings may beexaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings,reference numerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarilyidentical, elements.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show various views of an integral connector end inaccordance with certain exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of a fuse assembly inaccordance with certain exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of a conductor in accordance with certainexemplary embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of a connector that mechanically couples to theintegral connector end in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a connector assembly that includesthe connector of FIG. 4, in accordance with certain exemplaryembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, exemplary embodiments provide systems, methods, and devicesfor connectors with integral fuse holders. Specifically, exemplaryembodiments provide for securing a conductor to a fuse and securing thefuse within a connector end. While the exemplary embodiments discussedherein are described with reference to a connector used in a collectorsystem for PV solar panels, the exemplary connector can be used in oneor more of a number of other electrical applications. Such otherelectrical applications can include, but are not limited to, motorcontrol systems, protective relay systems, wind power systems, branchcircuit management and protection, and generator control systems.Crimping of the fuse assembly to the conductor should be performed whenthe conductor and the fuse assembly are de-energized (i.e., have nocurrent and/or voltage flowing therethrough).

With regard to a PV solar system, the exemplary connector with anintegral fuse holder can be used to replace, or reduce the number ofcomponents of, a PV array circuit combiner. In other words, theconnector with an integral fuse holder can replace one or more junctionboxes, one or more terminal blocks, conduit, complicated wiring,additional crimping of wires, and/or other features used in conjunctionwith a PV array circuit combiner. Further, in certain exemplaryembodiments, the connector with an integral fuse holder can be used toreplace one or more circuits ancillary to the PV array circuit combiner.For example, the connector with an integral fuse holder can replace afused switch or a circuit breaker panel.

Exemplary connectors with integral fuse holders can be used withelectrical signals in the form of currents that are discrete and/orcontinuous, alternating current (AC) and/or direct current (DC), andprovide for power and/or control. The electrical signals can flow fromone or more of the multiple devices to the connector with integral fuseholder and/or in the opposite direction. The connector with integralfuse holder can have one or more of a number of applications. Forexample, the connector with integral fuse holder can be used with PVsolar panels. Other applications can include, but are not limited to,monitoring devices for a steam boiler, vibration monitors for anelectric generator, and monitoring devices for an arc furnace.

A user may be any person that interacts with an exemplary connector withan integral fuse holder. Examples of a user may include, but are notlimited to, an engineer, an electrician, an instrumentation and controlstechnician, a mechanic, an operator, a consultant, a contractor, and amanufacturer's representative.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a connector with an integral fuseholder (and/or an electrical device with which a connector with anintegral fuse holder is integrated) is subject to meeting certainstandards and/or requirements. For example, the National Electric Code(NEC) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)set standards as to wiring and electrical connections. In PV solarapplications, the NEC requires that PV solar panels be connected to acollector using a MC4 connector. The MC4 connector is described in moredetail below with respect to FIGS. 1, 4, and 5.

In addition, Underwriters' Laboratories (UL) classifies fuse holders ina number of classes (e.g., Class J, Class T) where each class is definedby a number of categories, including but not limited to fusecharacteristics (e.g., time delay, fast acting), interrupting rating(10,000 A, 200,000 A), and available ampere ratings (e.g., 1-1200,¼-30). Use of exemplary embodiments described herein meet (and/or allowa corresponding device to meet) such standards when required.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a side view and a cross-sectional side view,respectively, of an integral connector end 100 in accordance withcertain exemplary embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or moreof the components shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B may be omitted, repeated,and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of an integral connectorend should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements ofcomponents shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the integral connector end 100combines a fuse holder and an electrical connector. The integralconnector end 100 includes a top portion 102, a middle portion 104, anda bottom portion 106. In certain exemplary embodiments, the integralconnector end 100 is a combination fuse holder and electrical connector.The top portion 102 can include a connector coupling portion 109 thatmechanically couples with a corresponding member (shown below withrespect to FIG. 4) of the electrical connector. The connector couplingportion 109 of the electrical connector can be for any type ofelectrical connector. For example, the connector coupling portion 109 ofthe electrical connector can be a standard MC4 male interface.

The connector coupling portion 109 can include one or more of a numberof coupling features to allow the top portion 102 to mechanically coupleto the corresponding member of the electrical connector. Examples ofsuch coupling features can include, but are not limited to, matingthreads, slots, apertures, clamps, compressible bands, and compressionfittings. As shown in FIG. 1B, the connector coupling portion 109 hastwo cavities 119 for receiving corresponding mating clips. The twocavities 119 are formed in the upper wall 114 of the connector couplingportion 109 at apertures 112. The two cavities 119 are shaped and sizedin such a way as to secure the corresponding mating clips of thecorresponding member of the electrical connector. In certain exemplaryembodiments, a release mechanism is included with the connector couplingportion 109 to allow a user to mechanically uncouple the two portions ofthe electrical connector.

The connector coupling portion 109 has an outer surface 110 that formsthe perimeter of the top portion 102. In certain exemplary embodiments,the outer surface 110 of the connector coupling portion 109 has an upperwall 114 disposed therein, forming a cavity 113. Within the cavity 113is positioned an electrical connection feature 118. The electricalconnection feature 118 is made, at least in part, of an electricallyconductive material and is positioned within all or a portion of thecavity 113 of the top portion 102.

The electrical connection feature 118 can be positioned in such a waythat a portion of the electrical connection feature 118 is accessiblefrom the top side of the top portion 102. The electrical connectionfeature 118 can be sized (e.g., height, width, depth, cross-sectionalshape) in such a way to mechanically couple to a correspondingelectrical connection feature, as described below in FIG. 4. When theelectrical connection feature 118 of the top portion 102 is mechanicallycoupled to the corresponding electrical connection feature, the twocomponents are electrically coupled to allow current to flowtherethrough. In this example, the electrical connection feature 118 ispositioned below the upper wall 114 through an aperture 117 that iscentered between the two cavities 119 of the connector coupling portion109.

The electrical connection feature 118 can be configured as a maleconnector, a female connector, or a combination thereof. In certainexemplary embodiments, the electrical connection feature 118 is made ofan electrically conductive material, including but not limited to copperand aluminum. The electrical connection feature 118 can have a smoothand/or textured surface. The shape and size of the electrical connectionfeature 118 is created to provide adequate electrical contact with thecorresponding member of the electrical connector.

The outer surface 110 of the top portion 102 can be made of one or moreof a number of electrically non-conductive materials to allow a user tocontact the top portion 102 without the risk of electric shock. Examplesof such electrically non-conductive materials can include, but are notlimited to, plastic, rubber, nylon, and ceramic. In addition, in certainexemplary embodiments, the upper wall 114 of the connector couplingportion 109 is also made of one or more electrically non-conductivematerials, which can be the same or a different electricallynon-conductive material than the outer surface 110 of the top portion102. In certain exemplary embodiments, the outer surface 110 includesone or more features 108 that allow a user to improve a grip on the topportion 102. Examples of such a feature 108 can include, but are notlimited to, a different texture of the outer surface 110, a concavecurvature (as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) to the outer surface 110, and aconvex curvature to the outer surface 110.

In certain exemplary embodiments, positioned underneath, andelectrically coupled to, the electrical connection feature 118 is abridge feature 111. The bridge feature 111 can be sized (e.g., height,width, depth, cross-sectional shape) in such a way to mechanicallycouple to a corresponding fuse connector, as described below withrespect to FIG. 2. When the bridge feature 111 of the top portion 102 ismechanically coupled to the corresponding fuse connector, the twocomponents are electrically coupled to allow current to flowtherethrough. In this example, the bridge feature 111 is positionedbelow the bottom side of the electrical connection feature 118.

The bridge feature 111 can be configured as a male connector, a femaleconnector, or a combination thereof. In certain exemplary embodiments,the bridge feature 111 is made of an electrically conductive material,including but not limited to copper and aluminum. The bridge feature 111can have a smooth and/or textured surface. The shape and size of thebridge feature 111 is created to provide adequate electrical contactwith the electrical connection feature 118. In certain exemplaryembodiments, the bridge feature 111 is omitted or included as part ofthe middle portion 104 as opposed to the top portion 102.

Optionally, in certain exemplary embodiments, the outer surface 110 ofthe top portion 102 includes an indicating device 115. The indicatingdevice 115 can provide a user with a visual indication of the operatingstate of the integral connector end 100. For example, the indicatingdevice 115 can indicate that current is not flowing through the integralconnector end 100. Such an indication can notify the user that the fusehas failed and should be replaced. In such a case, the indicating device115 can illuminate in a color (e.g., red) different from the colorilluminated by the indicating device 115 when the fuse is operatingproperly and power is flowing through the fuse. Alternatively, theindicating device 115 can fail to illuminate when the fuse has failed.As another example, the indicating device 115 can indicate that the fuseis operating properly, notifying the user that the circuit is live. Insuch a case, the indicating device 115 can illuminate in a green color.

The indicating device 115 can be a light source of any type, includingbut not limited to a light-emitting diode (LED), an incandescent bulb,and an organic LED. The indicating device 115 can be illuminatedperiodically, continuously, or based on the occurrence of some event(e.g., passage of time, cycle time, fuse failure). The indicating device115 can also vary in its level of illumination (brightness) and/or colorof illumination based on the amount of current flowing through theintegral connector end 100.

In addition, or alternatively, the indicating device 115 can emit someother type of notification about the status of power flow through theintegral connector end 100. For example, the indicating device 115 canemit sound if no power is flowing through the integral connector end100. Such a sound can have one or more of a number of volumes, becontinuous or periodic, and/or have one or more of a number of noises.

The indicating device 115 can be powered by one or more of a number ofsources. For example, the indicating device 115 can draw power from thepower flowing through the electrically conductive portions of theintegral connector end 110. In such a case a current transformer orsimilar device can be used to reduce the current and/or voltage to alevel appropriate for use by the indicating device 115. As anotherexample, a battery (not shown) can be used to power the indicatingdevice 115 independent of the power flowing through the electricallyconductive portions of the integral connector end 110.

The middle portion 104 of the integral connector end 100 includes anouter surface 120 of a wall 128 that forms a perimeter of the middleportion 104. In certain exemplary embodiments, the wall 128 of themiddle portion 104 has an inner surface 124 that forms a cavity 122. Theinner surface 124 forming the cavity 122 of the middle portion 104 canbe called a fuse receiver 124. The fuse receiver 124 of the middleportion 104 can have a smooth and/or textured surface. The shape andsize of the fuse receiver 124 is created to provide adequate mechanicalcontact with the outer surface of the fuse.

The middle portion 104 can be made of one or more of a number ofelectrically non-conductive materials. Examples of such electricallynon-conductive materials can include, but are not limited to, plastic,rubber, nylon, and ceramic. In addition, or in the alternative, the fusereceiver 124 can be made of an electrically conductive material (e.g.,copper, aluminum). Specifically, the top end of the fuse receiver 124can be made of an electrically conductive material. In such a case, thetop end of the fuse receiver 124 can be electrically and mechanicallycoupled to the bridge feature 111 and/or the electrical connectionfeature 118 of the top portion 102. In certain exemplary embodiments,the fuse receiver 124 is coupled to the bridge feature 111 and/or theelectrical connection feature 118 when the bottom portion 106 ismechanically coupled to the middle portion 104.

In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more fastening features 126 areincluded in the middle portion 104. Each fastening feature 126 securesthe fuse that is inserted into the cavity 122 of the middle portion 104.The fastening features 126 can be mechanically coupled to the innersurface 124, can be a texture of the inner surface 124, can be adifferent material of the inner surface 124, can use a compressive forceto push against the outer surface of the fuse, can be some otherfeature, or can be any combination thereof. The fastening feature 126can be made of an electrically non-conductive material. In certainexemplary embodiments, when the fastening feature 126 contacts anelectrically conductive portion of the fuse when the fuse is insertedinto the cavity 122, the fastening feature 126 is made of anelectrically conductive material and is electrically coupled to thebridge feature 111 and/or the electrical connection feature 118 of thetop portion 102.

The middle portion 104 can include a coupling feature 105. The couplingfeature 105 allows the middle portion 104 to mechanically couple to thebottom portion 106 of the integral connector end 100. The couplingfeature 105 includes a wall 152, which can have substantially the samecross-sectional dimensions as the cavity 122 of the rest of the middleportion 104. In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more fasteningfeatures 150 are included in the cavity 132 of the coupling feature 105.Each fastening feature 150 is substantially similar to the fasteningfeature 126 described above, except that the fastening feature 150 ofthe coupling feature 105 can be used to secure the conductor that isinserted into the cavity 132 of the coupling feature 105. In certainexemplary embodiments, the wall 152 is the same as the wall 128.

One or more coupling elements 135 can be disposed on and/or mechanicallycoupled to the wall 152. The coupling elements 135 mechanically coupleto corresponding coupling elements 140 of the bottom portion 106.Examples of such coupling elements 135 can include, but are not limitedto, mating threads (as shown in FIG. 1B), slots, fastening devices,receiving apertures, and clamps. In certain exemplary embodiments, thecoupling elements 135 of the coupling feature 105 allow the middleportion 104 to be movably coupled to the bottom portion 106. Suchmovable coupling allows the bottom portion 106 to be loosened and/ordetachable relative to the middle portion 104. In such a case, the fuseassembly (described below with respect to FIG. 2) can be removed fromthe integral connector end 100 and accessed.

The coupling feature 105 and the rest of the middle portion 104 can bemade from a single piece (as from a mold). Alternatively, or inaddition, the coupling feature 105 and the rest of the middle portion104 can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each otherusing one or more of a number of coupling methods, including but notlimited to epoxy, compression fittings, heat fusion, and mating threads.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the bottom portion 106 of the integralconnector end 100 is mechanically coupled to the middle portion 104.Specifically, the bottom portion 106 can be mechanically coupled to thecoupling feature 105. The bottom portion 106 has a wall 172 having aninner surface 144 and an outer surface 130. The inner surface 144 of thewall 172 forms a cavity 142 through which the fuse assembly cantraverse.

In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more sealing features 170 areincluded in the bottom portion 106. Each sealing feature 170 secures theconductor that is inserted into the cavity 142 of the bottom portion106. The sealing features 170 can be mechanically coupled to the innersurface 144, can be a texture of the inner surface 144, can be adifferent material of the inner surface 144, can use a compressive forceto push against the outer surface of the conductor, can be some otherfeature, or can be any combination thereof. The sealing feature 170 canbe made of an electrically non-conductive material.

In addition to securing the conductor, the sealing feature 170 cancreate a seal against the conductor to prevent fluids, dirt, and/orother foreign materials from entering the cavity 142 when the bottomportion 106 is mechanically coupled to the middle portion 104. In such acase, the movable coupling between the bottom portion 106 and the middleportion 104 can cause the sealing feature 170 to constrict as the bottomportion 106 is coupled to the middle portion 104, and can cause thesealing feature 170 to retract as the bottom portion 106 is decoupledfrom the middle portion 104.

For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the inner surface 144 of the secondend 105 includes mating threads 135 that threadably couple to the matingthreads 135 of the coupling feature 105. Positioned within the cavity142 toward the bottom side of the second end 105 is a sealing feature170. In this example, the sealing feature 170 is a compressible gland.The sealing feature 170 in this example is held in place within thecavity 142 by a collet 174 in the inner surface 144. As the bottomportion 106 and the middle portion 105 are threadably coupled together,the bottom end of the coupling feature 105 applies a compressive forceagainst the sealing feature 170. Because the sealing feature 170 is heldin place by the collet 174, the compressive force causes the feature 170to expand inward toward the center of the cavity 142. Thus, when theconductor is inside the cavity 142, the sealing feature 170 tightensaround the conductor, preventing (or reducing the amount of) fluid fromentering into the cavity 122 of the middle portion 104.

The sealing feature 170 can be made from one or more of a number ofmaterials, including but not limited to rubber, gel, and plastic. Inaddition, or in the alternative, other sealing features 170 can be usedto secure the conductor and provide a seal around the conductor thatkeep elements (e.g., fluids, dust) from entering the cavity 122 of themiddle portion 104. Other sealing features 170 can include, but are notlimited to, a sliding barrier and a stackable barrier.

The outer surface 130 of the bottom portion 106 can include one or morefeatures that help allow a user to couple and decouple the bottomportion 106 and the middle portion 104. Examples of such features caninclude, but are not limited to, beveled edges (for receiving a wrenchto assist in rotating the bottom portion 106), a textured surface, and agripping surface.

The outer surface 110 of the top portion 102, the wall 128 of the middleportion 104, and/or the wall 172 of the bottom portion 106 can be madefrom a single piece (as from a mold). Alternatively, or in addition, theouter surface 110 of the top portion 102, the wall 128 of the middleportion 104, and/or the wall 172 of the bottom portion 106 can beseparate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one ormore of a number of coupling methods, including but not limited toepoxy, compression fittings, heat fusion, and mating threads.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of a fuse assembly 200 inaccordance with certain exemplary embodiments. In one or moreembodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 2 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of afuse assembly should not be considered limited to the specificarrangements of components shown in FIG. 2.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the fuse assembly 200 is inserted intothe bottom portion of the integral connector end 100. Specifically, thefuse assembly 200 is inserted through the cavity 142 of the bottomportion 106, through the cavity 132 of the coupling feature 105, andinto the cavity 122 of the middle portion 104. The fuse assembly 200includes a fuse 222, a fuse holder 220, a conductor receiver 230, and acontact member 210.

The fuse 222 is an electrical device that has two conductive ends 215,225 (also called a top end 215 and a bottom end 225) that electricallycouple to either side of a low resistance resistor 228 that traversesthe inside of the fuse 222. The low resistance resistor 228 on theinside of the fuse 222 can be a metal wire or strip that melts when toomuch current flows therethrough. Under normal electric operatingconditions, the fuse 222 allows current to flow through it, from one end(e.g., the top end 215), through the resistor 228, and out the other end(e.g., the bottom end 225).

When the current and/or voltage flowing through the fuse 222 become toohigh (based, in part, on the rating and size of the fuse 222), theresistor 228 inside the fuse 222 breaks down (fails), creating an opencircuit between the ends 215, 225 of the fuse 222. As such, the fuse 222is a sacrificial device that provides overcurrent protection to a loadsource circuit. In other words, when the resistor 228 inside the fuse222 melts, the circuit to which the fuse 222 is connected isinterrupted. Excessive current can flow through the fuse 222 for one ormore of a number of reasons, including but not limited to a shortcircuit, a current and/or voltage overload, a mismatched load, and adevice failure. In order to reconnect the circuit through the fuse 222once the fuse 222 has failed, the fuse 222 and/or the resistor 228inside the fuse 222 is replaced. The resistor 228 inside the fuse 222can be permanent or replaceable. Likewise, the entire fuse 222 can bepermanent or replaceable.

The outer surface of the fuse 222 (between the top end 215 and thebottom end 225) is made of electrically non-conductive material. Theouter surface of the fuse 222 can be made of one or more of a number ofmaterials, including but not limited to ceramic, glass, plastic,fiberglass, molded mica laminates, and molded compressed fiber. Thematerial used for the outer surface can depend on one or more of anumber of factors, including but not limited to amperage rating, voltageclass, and application.

The ends 215, 225 of the fuse 222 can be of the same or a different sizeand/or shape. The ends 215, 225 of the fuse 222 can have rounded ends,spade ends, wire leads, solder pads, and/or any other suitable shape.The fuse 222 can comply with one or more of a number of standards,including but not limited to International Electrotechnical Commission(IEC) standard 60269, NEC standard NFPA 70, and UL standard 248.Further, the fuse 222 can have a voltage and/or current rating, whichrepresents the maximum voltage and/or current that the fuse 222 willallow to pass therethrough before failing, creating an open circuit.Examples of ratings that a fuse 222 can have include, but are notlimited to, 1 A, 30 A, 600V, and 1000V.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the fuse holder 220 has a second end224, a first end 226, and an intermediate portion 240. The second end224 of the fuse holder 220 can be made of an electrically-conductivematerial and can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the top end215 of the fuse 222 and to the contact member 210. The first end 226 ofthe fuse holder 220 can also be made of an electrically-conductivematerial (either the same or a different material than the second end224) and can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the bottom end225 of the fuse 222 and to the conductor receiver 230.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the fuse holder 220 has a second end224 (also called a second end 224) and a first end 226 (also called afirst end 226) that are shaped and sized to receive one or more fuses222. The fuse holder 220 can be made from one or more of a number ofmaterials, including metal (e.g., copper, alloy, aluminum, stainlesssteel), plastic, nylon, some other material, or any combination thereof.The ends 224, 226 of the fuse holder 220 can have some degree ofphysical flexibility (e.g., a clip) to allow the ends 215, 225 of thefuse 222 to be held under compression and/or tension and also to beremoved by applying a certain amount of force to remove an end 215, 225of the fuse 222 from the fuse holder 220. In such a case, the fuse 222can be replaced (as when the fuse 222 fails) by a user.

The fuse holder 220 can also have an intermediate portion 240 thatmechanically couples to each of the ends 215, 225 of the fuse holder220. The intermediate portion 240 can be made of the same or a differentmaterial than the material used for the ends 215, 225 of the fuse holder220. In certain exemplary embodiments, the intermediate portion 240 ismade of an electrically non-conductive material.

The conductor receiver 230 (including the receiving feature) can be madeof an electrically-conductive material. The receiving feature of theconductor receiver 230 is located at the distal end of the conductorreceiver 230 and mechanically and electrically couples to a conductiveportion of the conductor, described below with respect to FIG. 3. At theproximal end, the conductor receiver 230 is electrically andmechanically coupled to the first end 226 of the fuse holder 220.Consequently, the conductor receiver 230 is also electrically coupled tothe bottom end 225 of the fuse 222.

The receiving feature of the conductor receiver 230 can be one or moreof a number of features that allow the conductor receiver 230 to befixedly and/or removably coupled to the conductor. For example, as shownin FIG. 2, the receiving feature of the conductor receiver 230 is a tubethat has a size (e.g., cross-sectional shape, perimeter, diameter)sufficient to receive at least a conductive portion of the conductor. Insuch a case, the receiving feature can be made of a malleable surfacethat can be crimped or otherwise manipulated to fixedly couple to theconductor (and, thus, the first end 226 of the fuse holder 220 and thebottom end 225 of the fuse 222). If the conductor receiver 230 is a fuseclip, then the tube can be part of the fuse clip.

Other examples of a receiving feature for the conductor receiver 230 caninclude, but are not limited to, a compression fitting, an aperture, afastening device, and a number of spikes (or similar protruding devices)that can puncture the insulation of the conductor and make mechanicalcontact with the conductive portion of the conductor. There can be asingle receiving feature for a single conductor receiver 230.Alternatively, there can be multiple receiving features for a singleconductor receiver 230.

The contact member 210 can be made of an electrically-conductivematerial. The contact member 210 is mechanically (e.g., fixedly,removably, threadably) coupled to the second end 224 of the fuse holder220. Further, when the fuse assembly 200 is inserted into the integralconnector end 100, the contact member 210 mechanically couples to theelectrical connection feature 118 and/or the bridge feature 111. In sucha case, the contact member 210 is also electrically coupled to theelectrical connection feature 118 and/or the bridge feature 111. Incertain exemplary embodiments, the feature (e.g., the electricalconnection feature 118, the bridge feature 111) that actually receivesand mechanically couples to the contact member 210 can also be called acontact member receiver or a fuse receiver.

The contact member 210 can have a shape and/or size to provide forenough physical contact with the electrical connection feature 118and/or the bridge feature 111 so that the transfer of power between thecontact member 210 and the electrical connection feature 118 or thebridge feature 111 avoids ground faults, overcurrent, overtemperature,and/or any other adverse electrical operating conditions. For example,as shown in FIGS. 1B and 2, the contact member 210 is a pin, and thebridge feature 111 has a cavity that has approximately the samedimensions as the pin. As a result, when the fuse assembly 200 isinserted into the integral connector end 100, the pin mechanicallycouples to the bridge feature 111.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the contact member receiver (e.g., theelectrical connection feature 118, the bridge feature 111) includes oneor more securing features (not shown). A securing feature can be anyfeature that holds the contact member 210 in place when the fuseassembly 200 is inserted into the integral connector end 100. Examplesof a securing feature can include, but are not limited to, slightprotrusions (e.g., bumps) along the inner surface of the contact memberreceiver that complement a corresponding protrusion along the outersurface of the contact member 210, a notch and a slot disposed on thecontact member receiver and the contact member 210, and mating threads.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the contact member 210 and the secondend 224 of the fuse holder 220 are integrated with the bridge feature111 and/or the electrical connection feature 118. In such a case, theintermediate portion 240 of the fuse holder 220 can be omitted. When theresulting fuse assembly 200 is inserted into the cavity 122 of themiddle portion 104, the top end 215 of the fuse is exposed and ismechanically coupled to a receiving feature (e.g., the bridge feature111, the electrical connection feature 118) at the top of the cavity 122to create the electrical connection.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary conductor 300 in accordance with certainexemplary embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more of thecomponents shown in FIG. 3 may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted.Accordingly, embodiments of a conductor should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 3.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, the conductor 300 can include anelectrically conductive portion 310 and an insulating (electricallynon-conductive) portion 320. The electrically conductive portion 310 canbe made of one ore more electrically conductive materials (e.g., copper,aluminum) that can carry power (e.g., current, voltage). The amount ofcurrent and/or voltage that a conductor 300 can carry depends on one ormore of a number of factors, including but not limited to the size(e.g., the cross-sectional area) of the conductive portion 310 of theconductor 300, the material of the conductive portion 310 of theconductor 300, and the ambient temperature. The size of the conductiveportion 310 of the conductor 300 can be categorized in terms of Americanwire gauge (AWG) and/or any other standard. The conductive portion 310can be a solid material, a number of solid materials bundled together, ameshed material, or material arranged in any other suitableconfiguration.

The insulating portion 320 of the conductor 300 encases one or moreconductive portions 310 of the conductor 300. The insulating portion 320of the conductor 300 can be made of one or more electricallynon-conductive materials (e.g., rubber, nylon, plastic). In certainexemplary embodiments, the insulating portion 320 can be removed inportions using a tool (e.g., a wire stripper, a knife) so that theconductive portion 310 is exposed. In such a case, the conductiveportion 310 that is exposed can be mechanically and electrically coupledto the conductor receiver 230.

The conductor 300 can be a single conductive portion 310 encased in asingle insulating portion 320. Alternatively, the conductor 300 can bemultiple conductive portions 310 encased in a single insulating portion320. In yet another embodiment, the conductor can be a single conductiveportion 310 encased in multiple insulating portions 320. Alternatively,the conductor 300 can be multiple conductive portions 310 encased inmultiple insulating portions 320, as in a multi-conductor cable. Theother end of the conductor 300 can continue on to another device in anelectrical system. For example, for a PV solar system, the other end ofthe conductor 300 can couple to a PV solar panel or a collector.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, FIG. 4 shows a side view of a connector 400 thatmechanically couples to the integral connector end 100 in accordancewith certain exemplary embodiments. In certain exemplary embodiments,the connector 400 is a complementary connector portion relative to thetop portion 102 of the integral connector end 100. Specifically, theconnector 400 has one or more features (e.g., electrical connectionfeature 410, mating clips 420) that mechanically and/or electricallycouples with the top portion 102. In this example, the mating clips 420can be inserted into and coupled with the two cavities 119 formed in theupper wall 114 of the connector coupling portion 109 at apertures 112.In addition, the electrical connection feature 410 (e.g., a pin) can beinserted into and coupled with the electrical connection feature 118 ofthe top portion 102.

When the connector 400 is mechanically coupled to the top portion 102 ofthe integral connector end 100, the two components are also electricallycoupled to each other, allowing power to flow through the twocomponents. The connector 400 can be for any type of electricalconnector. For example, if the connector coupling portion 109 of theelectrical connector is a standard MC4 male interface, then theconnector 400 can be a standard MC4 female interface.

To decouple the connector 400 from the top portion 102 of the integralconnector end 100, a release mechanism can be exercised on the connector400 and/or the top portion 102. For example, the compressible sides 450of the connector 400 can be depressed by a user by applying an inwardforce at both ends of the compressible sides 450. When enough inwardforce is applied, the mating clips 420 move inside the two cavities 119of the connector coupling portion 109. In such a case, if an outwardforce (pulling the connector 400 and the top portion 102 in oppositedirections) is applied while the inward force on the compressible sides450 is maintained, then the connector 400 can be decoupled from the topportion 102. When the connector 400 and the top portion 102 aredecoupled, the components are also electrically decoupled.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a connector assembly 500 thatincludes the connector 400 of FIG. 4, in accordance with certainexemplary embodiments. Specifically, the connector assembly 500 includesa body 510 that is mechanically coupled to the connector 400 using aconnecting collar 520. The other end of the body 510 has a conductor 540traversing therethrough. The conductor 540 can continue on to anotherdevice in an electrical system. For example, for a PV solar system, theother end of the conductor 540 can couple to a PV solar panel or acollector.

Exemplary embodiments provide for an improved connector that integratesa fuse. Specifically, a user (e.g., electrician) can couple a conductorto a fuse assembly using only a single action (e.g., crimping aconductor receiver of the fuse assembly to mechanically and electricallycouple the conductor receiver to the conductive portion of theconductor). The user can then insert the fuse assembly into theconnector body and manually tighten an end piece of the connector bodyto secure the conductor and fuse assembly and to prevent elements (e.g.,moisture, dirt) external to the connector body from entering a cavity ofthe connector body. Certain exemplary embodiments allow a user toassemble the conductor, fuse assembly, and connector body without theuse of (or with limited use of) tools. Further, exemplary embodimentscan provide a user with a visual indication that a fuse is securelyreceived into the connector body. Exemplary embodiments may be used witha number of sizes and/or shapes of conductor and/or fuses.

Further, exemplary embodiments save time, material, and money ininstalling and maintaining an electrical system. Specifically, usingexemplary connectors with integral fuse holders described herein canreduce or eliminate the need for junction boxes, conduit, terminalblocks, fuse blocks, conductors, and a number of other components. Inaddition, the use of exemplary connectors with integral fuse holders canprovide one or more of a number of electrical and/or mechanical benefitsrelative to the conductor. Such benefits can include, but are notlimited to, strain relief, ease of installation, ease of maintenance,timeliness of replacing a blown fuse that results from an overcurrentand/or overtemperature condition, and visual confirmation ofconnectivity of the connector with integral fuse holder.

Although embodiments described herein are made with reference toexemplary embodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in theart that various modifications are well within the scope and spirit ofthis disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that theexemplary embodiments described herein are not limited to anyspecifically discussed application and that the embodiments describedherein are illustrative and not restrictive. From the description of theexemplary embodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein willsuggest themselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructingother embodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselvesto practitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the exemplaryembodiments is not limited herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An integral connector end, comprising: a firstpiece comprising: a first portion comprising an electrical connectionfeature, wherein the electrical connection feature comprises anelectrically conductive material; and a second portion located adjacentto the first portion and comprising a first wall that surrounds a firstcavity and a fuse receiver disposed within the first cavity, wherein thefuse receiver is electrically coupled to the electrical connectionfeature, wherein the first wall has disposed thereon at least onecoupling feature, wherein the second portion is located at a proximalend of the first piece, and wherein the first portion is located at adistal end of the first piece; and a second piece comprising a secondwall and is removeably coupled to the second portion of the first piece,wherein the second wall has disposed thereon at least one complementarycoupling feature that couples to the at least one coupling feature ofthe second portion, wherein the first cavity is configured to receive atleast a portion of a fuse, wherein the connector coupling portion, thefirst wall, and the second wall of the second piece are made ofelectrically non-conductive material.
 2. The integral connector end ofclaim 1, wherein the second piece further comprises a sealing featuredisposed within a second cavity formed by the second wall, wherein thesealing feature prevents fluids from entering the first cavity when thesecond piece is coupled to the second portion.
 3. The integral connectorend of claim 2, wherein the second piece is threadably coupled to thesecond portion, and wherein the sealing feature tightens around theconductor as the second piece is tightened to the second portion.
 4. Theintegral connector end of claim 1, wherein the fuse receiver comprises asecuring feature that maintains mechanical and electrical contact with atop end of the fuse when the second piece is mechanically coupled to thesecond portion.
 5. The integral connector end of claim 1, wherein theconductor is mechanically coupled to a bottom end of the fuse using aconductor receiver.
 6. The integral connector end of claim 1, whereinthe first portion further comprises a bridge feature the electricallycouples the electrical connection feature of the first portion to thefuse receiver of the second portion.
 7. The integral connector end ofclaim 1, wherein the second portion further comprises a bridge featurethat electrically couples the electrical connection feature of the firstportion to the fuse receiver of the second portion.
 8. A photovoltaic(PV) solar panel connector assembly, comprising: a first connectorportion comprising a first connector coupling portion and a firstelectrical connection feature; a second connector portion thatmechanically couples to the first connector portion, wherein the secondconnector portion comprises: a first portion comprising a secondconnector coupling portion and a second electrical connection feature,wherein the second electrical connection feature comprises anelectrically conductive material and is electrically coupled to thefirst electrical connection feature, and wherein the second connectorcoupling portion couples to the first connector coupling portion; and asecond portion comprising a first wall that surrounds a first cavity, athird connector coupling portion, and a fuse receiver disposed withinthe first cavity, wherein the fuse receiver is electrically coupled tothe second electrical connection feature, wherein the second portion isopposite the first portion along a length of the second connectorportion; a third connector portion comprising a second wall, wherein thethird connector portion is removeably coupled to the second portion ofthe second connector portion, wherein the second wall forms a secondcavity and has a fourth connector coupling portion disposed thereon,wherein the fourth connector coupling portion is coupled to the thirdconnector coupling portion, wherein the fourth connector couplingportion, the first wall, and the second wall are made of electricallynon-conductive material; a fuse assembly electrically coupled to thefuse receiver after being inserted through the second cavity, whereinthe fuse assembly comprises: a fuse having a top end and a bottom end,wherein the top end and the bottom end each comprise an electricallyconductive material, and wherein the fuse is at least partially disposedwithin the first cavity of the second portion of the second connectorportion; a fuse holder comprising a first end comprising electricallyconductive material, wherein the first end is electrically coupled tothe bottom end of the fuse; and a conductor receiver electricallycoupled to the first end of the fuse holder and to the bottom end of thefuse, wherein the conductor receiver comprises a receiving feature; anda conductor electrically and mechanically coupled to the conductorreceiver.
 9. The PV solar panel connector assembly of claim 8, whereinthe fuse holder further comprises a second end that mechanically couplesto the top end of the fuse and the fuse receiver.
 10. The PV solar panelconnector assembly of claim 9, wherein the fuse assembly furthercomprises a contact member that mechanically couples to the second endof the fuse holder and to the fuse receiver.
 11. The PV solar panelconnector assembly of claim 9, wherein the fuse holder further comprisesan intermediate portion mechanically couples to the first end and thesecond of the fuse holder, wherein the intermediate portion comprises anelectrically non-conductive material.
 12. The PV solar panel connectorassembly of claim 8, wherein the conductor receiver is a tube that iscrimped to mechanically couple the tube to the conductor and toelectrically couple the conductor to the bottom end of the fuse.
 13. ThePV solar panel connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the contact memberof the fuse assembly is a pin that mechanically couples to a securingfeature of the fuse receiver.
 14. The PV solar panel connector assemblyof claim 8, wherein the second connector portion further comprises anindicating device, wherein the indicating device notifies a user thatthe fuse has failed.
 15. The PV solar panel connector assembly of claim8, wherein the second connector portion is a type MC4 male interface.16. The PV solar panel connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the fuseis rated for between 1 A and 30 A and between 600V and 1000V.
 17. The PVsolar panel connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the third connectorportion further comprises a sealing feature disposed within the secondcavity, wherein the sealing feature prevents fluids from entering thefirst cavity when the third connector portion is coupled to the secondportion.
 18. The PV solar panel connector assembly of claim 8, whereinthe conductor has a size between 12 American wire gauge (AWG) and 8 AWG.19. The PV solar panel connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the firstend and the second end of the fuse holder is a pair of electricallyconductive fuse clips for mechanically coupling to the top end and thebottom end, respectively, of the fuse.
 20. The PV solar panel connectorassembly of claim 8, wherein the fuse can be removed and replaced whenthe fuse fails.